Five Films for February 6th, 2022
1. Hollywood Shuffle (Amazon Prime)
I selected this film because today is Robert Townsend’s birthday. He was born in 1957 and is an actor, writer, producer, and director. This film that he stars in was his directorial debut.
Alternative Title to Watch - The Mighty Quinn (HBO Max) - Townsend has a supporting role in this underrated 1989 film that stars Denzel Washington as a cop in the Caribbean isle.
2. The Queen (HBO Max)
I selected this film because it was on this date in 1952 when King George VI died and Elizabeth became Queen. This film stars Helen Mirren as Queen Elizabeth and Michael Sheen as Tony Blair. (On a side note, this is the 2nd of 3 times in which Michael Sheen has portrayed Tony Blair in a film. The third film was included in yesterday’s newsletter).
Alternative Title to Watch - A Royal Night Out (Vudu) - This 2015 film takes place in 1945 before Elizabeth is queen.
3. The 400 Blows (Criterion Channel)
I selected this film because today is François Truffaut’s birthday. He was born in 1932 and died in 1984 at the age of 52. This was Truffaut’s first feature film and remains one of his best.
Alternative Title to Watch - The Last Metro (HBO Max) - This 1980 film starring Catherine Deneuve and Gerard Depardieu was one of Truffaut’s last films.
4. She’s Out of My League (Paramount Plus)
I selected this film because today is Alice Eve’s birthday. She was born in 1982 and has appeared in several films and television series. This film co-starring Jay Baruchel was one of her early breakout roles.
Alternative Title to Watch - Please Stand By (Amazon Prime) - Alice Eve has a supporting role in this 2017 quirky film that also stars Dakota Fanning and Toni Collette.
5. Hell’s Kitchen (HBO Max)
I selected this film because today is Ronald Reagan’s birthday. He was born in 1911 and before becoming the 40th U.S. President, he starred in several classic films including this one.
Alternative Title to Watch - The Reagans (Hulu) - This 2020 4 episode limited series about the ups and downs of Reagan’s presidency is worth a watch.